Computer Articles

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Ever wonder how secure your information truly is? What security protocols do you practice? Maybe creating a password? Locking the computer so others cannot access your data? Bypassing windows passwords only takes a minute or less and the windows 10 installation disk. Thus far, I have been successful in using the Windows 10 disk to bypass account passwords and even activating deactivated accounts on Windows Server 2012, Windows 10, Windows 7, and Windows 8.1. I have yet to test the technique to bypass locked computer accounts in Windows XP and Vista, but I do not foresee any complications with those operating systems.

Before you think this makes you safer because you use Mac OS X. I have also been able to bypass root level account passwords on a MacBook Pro, running Mac OS X (10.10) Yosemite operating system, using built-in Apple commands. This method also took less than a minute to accomplish.

The security implemented in an operating system and accounts always has a level of vulnerability. Most security measures are feel good methods. Username and passwords, for example, represent single level authentication, identifying who you are, the username and proof that you are who you are, the password. It is said for modern security protocols to require the username to be unique and the password to have a minimum of 16 characters and a random combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters to be utilized. 16 digits the extent of the average person to remember their own passwords. With the growing technological advancements of computer processing power, such passwords will eventually be capable of being broken in shorter amounts of time, eventually making them completely useless. Most operating systems store username and password combinations as hash algorithms in specific files that can be viewed as plain text, resulting in the need for passwords to be ultimately obsolete.

Stating those facts does not mean “So, why bother?” with username and passwords. Passwords do stop the average person from gaining access and some level of security is better than no level of security. There, of course, are other ways to better secure your operating systems, preventing the method mentioned here from being capable of being utilized. Data at rest encryption, for example, is an option at the operating system level. This means a decryption process must occur prior to the operating system boot.

2 factor and 3-factor authentication also increase the security level of your operating system. CAC (Common Access Cac) cards, commonly utilized by the DoD and other government agencies are a prime example of 2-factor authentication. The first factor, requiring the card itself that maintains encrypted certificates to identify who you are and who you say you are, plus the second factor of a pin as secondary proof. 3-factor authentication would include features such as biometrics. Keep in mind, even with all of these methods being utilized. There is no such thing as a 100% secure system.

An IT asset is any information that the company owns, their hardware or system that they used in business activities for that company. The process of IT asset disposal can be fraught with risk but the most risky element is environmental compliance with the federal and state regulations. There is also the disaster that could happen if the company’s assets were discovered leaching toxic materials in the environment, processed under unsafe working condition overseas in a dumping ground, or moldering in a landfill. To ensure that your IT asset disposal is in environmental compliance here are some key facts that you should know.

When it says “free”, it does not always mean that

There are IT recycling vendors that will offer to take the assets and dispose of them at no cost to the company. When you ask them how they can do this, they may tell you that they will make money selling the assets for scrap. This should throw up a red flag and make you suspicious. When an IT asset material does have some value as scrap, it is not usually enough to sustain a recycling business that is environmentally compliant. If your company does have to pay fines for a company who is practicing poor recycling those “free” services could cost your company a fortune. So if an IT asset disposal center offers to dispose of your company’s assets for free, look for another service.

Downstream does matter

Many of these companies have partners downstream who they hand off the assets to be processed further and it is usually material they cannot sell. One important thing to note is that your company is liable for all IT assets that you have disposed of throughout the chain of custody. This is from the time it leaves your company to the final disposition spot. To make sure that the company you choose is environmental compliance you need to make sure that all of the people involved are also in compliance. Make sure that you do know where your IT assets go.

Certification

This is the most reliable way to make sure that company you chose is environmental compliance. Generally, there is no one at your company who has the expertise or time to audit the IT asset disposal recycling center practices from start to finish. You do not have to rely on their word that they and any partners are in compliance. Ask to see their certification for compliant and safe IT asset recycling, which are one or both of these certificates, R2/RIOS and e-Stewards. To get these certificates they also have to monitor their partners and provide documented proof that the IT asset disposal is in compliance with all standards and laws.

Ever wonder how secure your information truly is? What security protocols do you practice? Maybe creating a password? Locking the computer so others cannot access your data? Bypassing windows passwords only takes a minute or less and the windows 10 installation disk. Thus far, I have been successful in using the Windows 10 disk to bypass account passwords and even activating deactivated accounts on Windows Server 2012, Windows 10, Windows 7, and Windows 8.1. I have yet to test the technique to bypass locked computer accounts in Windows XP and Vista, but I do not foresee any complications with those operating systems.

Before you think this makes you safer because you use Mac OS X. I have also been able to bypass root level account passwords on a MacBook Pro, running Mac OS X (10.10) Yosemite operating system, using built-in Apple commands. This method also took less than a minute to accomplish.

The security implemented in an operating system and accounts always has a level of vulnerability. Most security measures are feel good methods. Username and passwords, for example, represent single level authentication, identifying who you are, the username and proof that you are who you are, the password. It is said for modern security protocols to require the username to be unique and the password to have a minimum of 16 characters and a random combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters to be utilized. 16 digits the extent of the average person to remember their own passwords. With the growing technological advancements of computer processing power, such passwords will eventually be capable of being broken in shorter amounts of time, eventually making them completely useless. Most operating systems store username and password combinations as hash algorithms in specific files that can be viewed as plain text, resulting in the need for passwords to be ultimately obsolete.

Stating those facts does not mean “So, why bother?” with username and passwords. Passwords do stop the average person from gaining access and some level of security is better than no level of security. There, of course, are other ways to better secure your operating systems, preventing the method mentioned here from being capable of being utilized. Data at rest encryption, for example, is an option at the operating system level. This means a decryption process must occur prior to the operating system boot.

2 factor and 3-factor authentication also increase the security level of your operating system. CAC (Common Access Cac) cards, commonly utilized by the DoD and other government agencies are a prime example of 2-factor authentication. The first factor, requiring the card itself that maintains encrypted certificates to identify who you are and who you say you are, plus the second factor of a pin as secondary proof. 3-factor authentication would include features such as biometrics. Keep in mind, even with all of these methods being utilized. There is no such thing as a 100% secure system.

Computers have become the part and parcel of every business unit, and as these are sensitive gadgets that often need repair, upgradation, and periodic maintenance. Your business is no exception for sure but do you know how you can find the best computer maintenance and repair support? If you are not fully aware of it, know the essential details of repair and maintenance before you hire a service and verify the needs with your available resources.

Check if service provider is endorsed by manufacturers’ certification

Some computer repairs facilities enjoys their manufacturers’ endorsement as preferred service providers. Check if the service provider you have selected is an authorized and preferred counter for computer repairs. Also check if the technicians working there have done their course on computer repairing. As computers are getting complex every day, only trained technicians can manage repairing job with professional proficiency. Specifically you should ask if the repair facility is equipped enough to offer servicing for the brand of computer you are working with. For example, if you are using Dell, check if the technicians are Dell certified.

Faster turnaround time

When you need repairing service support, it is obvious that you want to get the job done fast. You need to clarify with the repair facility if they can get their job done in short turnaround time. Before speaking to your shortlisted vendor, you also need to check at random with other repair shops about the average repair time and accordingly evaluate if your vendor is offering the right turnaround time. Alternatively, ask your service provider if they are capable to offer you one-day repair service.

On site repairing support

Although computer and laptops are portable, but it always wise to call an onsite support service because it saves time and you need not to take away your system out of your premise. Ask your repair service provider if they can offer you on site service: it will be a better option for you.

Service warranty is a must thing

Before you find and finalize your computer repair service provider, check if they offer you service warranty. Unless service warranty is offered, there is high chance that service quality of your vendor can be compromised. Additionally check if the company offers replace guarantee of spare parts if anything they damage during repair work. According to market standard, repair facilities offer 6-12 months warranty; without service warranty long term cost efficiency of your computer maintenance may not stand profit yielding.

Service charge should be affordable

Service charge and its affordability is one of the vital factors for selecting a vendor for computer repairs and maintenance. Check the service charge for the repair jobs proposed by your vendor. Unless it is moderate and justified, in the long run, it might get difficult for you to use a costly service. Also check if the service provider is available 24×7 because you do not know when you may need the support.

These are the essential facts you need to know about computer maintenance and repairs because a service provider with all these facilities can only be the best option for your business use.

In the present technology-driven society, laptop or notebook has been a part and parcel of our daily life. We do a lot of activities on it to make our life more comfortable and hospitable. Starting from train timetable checking to ticket booking till buying goods online, we use a laptop or notebook.

Being handy and lightweight, we carry it with us to execute many simple to complex tasks easily with the aid of it. This is why when our laptops face issues like overheating, malfunctioning and shutting down suddenly, we cannot concentrate on any work until we get it fixed or repaired. It becomes our headache.

How laptop service centers help us

To help us get rid of these issues, many laptop service centers have come to the scene. A significant number of these service centers are called dedicated service centers. A dedicated service center is a company authorized service center. It offers multiple services for a particular brand. A dedicated laptop service center never works for the other brands. Sometimes, it is directly controlled by a company. Besides, the company can hire a contractor or a third-party vendor to offer uninterrupted services on behalf of it. The contractor solves various issues faced by the users of a particular brand. In many cases, it never takes money from a customer- if the issues come within the warranty periods. In that case, the tech support professionals take the signature of a customer and deliver the product.

Offsite and on-site services

As the consequence of it, we get to see many dedicated laptop service centers belonging to various reputable companies like Dell, Acer, Asus, Lenovo, Samsung, Toshiba, Compaq, HCL, etc. If your laptop or notebook does not work properly or you need to solve an overheating issue, you should visit a dedicated service center. Based on the manufacturing company, you just need to find one located very close to your home. If you have faced the issue within the warranty period, you do not need to pay for it. Besides, in order to enjoy all benefits- you need to check the facilities ensured by the company at the time of purchasing the notebook.

There are many notebook manufacturing companies offering on-site services. It means a company representative will come to your place in order to fix the issue at free of cost (within the warranty period only). You just need to bring the matter to their attention. To receive service at your place, you need to call them at their toll-free number or drop a mail. You will receive a call on behalf of a service center representative or directly from the company to confirm the email receipt and understand your problem better.

During the time of conversation over the telephone, the customer support executive will ask your product number and model number. After that, they will forward your matter to the concerned department. Once your matter is processed, you will receive a call or an SMS. This call or SMS will let you know the expected time and the name of the person coming to fix the issues. The company representative will ask you to show the bill. After checking and verifying it with your given information, he will start the work.

The technology of today is incredibly impressive. Nowadays, we can retrieve any information we want and can communicate with anyone in any part of the world with a few taps or clicks of the mouse. And all this is possible with a device that can fit in your pocket. Below are 5 technological advancements that will dominate the future. Read on to find out more.

1. IoT

You may have heard about the Internet-of-Things or IoT. This technology makes it possible to have connected homes. But why is it that we don’t see connected homes in the here and now? Well, the basic problem is that there is a lot of competition, but not enough collaboration. In other words, you can find a lot of apps and appliances on the market, but very few solutions to connect these things together for seamless user experience. Hopefully, we will witness big advancements in the near future.

2. VR and AR

As far as VR and AR are concerned, you have already seen some great steps. After the release of Oculus Rift, tons of VR games and apps were launched. One big game is Pokemon Go, which is a big name on the list of VR games. It was downloaded for more than 100 million times. As a matter of fact, the market is all set for the VR and AR stuff. Hopefully, things will take off in the next few years.

3. Machine Learning

Machine learning has also become advanced. As a matter of fact, it has helped enhance the search engine algorithm of Google. But only a few apps have taken advantage of this technology. However, the technology is expected to spread across the board and it will dominate all consumer applications. For instance, it will offer better products in the search results so you can find the right one.

4. Automation

Today, marketers will be happy to know that the automation will make it easier for them to improve their production processes. Now, the automation will allow them to get those tasks done that were only done by humans previously. In the next few years, robots will get advanced and they will perform complex tasks.

Automation will make some jobs disappear while creating new ones. When machine learning is combined with automation, you will see things getting better before long.

5. Big Data

For the past couple of years, big data has been a topic of debate. The idea is that the huge amount of data that we can use today can help you plan more powerful marketing campaigns and medical treatments. But the biggest strength of the big data is that it’s also a big weakness.

So, these are 5 big technology advancements of today that will shape the future. Just a few decades back, we had the first mobile phone. Nowadays, that mobile phone has turned into a computer that allows us to do almost any task that you can do on a desktop computer or laptop. Let’s see what the technology will bring for us down the road.

Throughout my life I have tried not to go so far into technology. It is obvious that technology is not my thing and it has never been. But what happens when the children begin to appear and with them the world opens wide to thousands of ideas and new practices?

Once I was in a consultation for the pediatrician, I was sitting next to me, a lady about 45 years old, we were both waiting for the same doctor. Suddenly, and with a cell phone in his hand he looks at me and starts a chat with me, that I’m not very sociable.

-What this thing from Facebook tells me… with a face of not understanding too much. And the talk continues, that more than conversation was a monologue. Have not you read about the atrocities that are done through this network? He asks me, and I with a smile and shaking my head I say no. Many people with fake personalities, changed names and others are talking and engaging in conversations and even reaching children and teenagers. How exposed our children are, and for this there is no sex, no matter the girl or child.

-Already telling me this, I began to pay more attention to him and said, therefore, to all the parents that I could, I urge you to learn to use technology and accompany your children who are their friends in the networks and who know their Friendships that today are not only flesh and blood but also virtual and very dangerous.

I believe that after this comment, there has been nothing in my life that I have looked for more and with more interest than to approach the technology, which incidentally, is a continuous research but that is so easy to reach.

I remember that before, we only had to attend a library to access the information or go to the home of people who have had the purchasing power to buy them on a particular subject.

Today with a cell phone and an internet connection, we have all the information at the fingertips. When I sit down and think about it, I find the reason for those famous words… There is no better teacher than need.

The thirst to know in what things and our young people and children make that the parents investigate and we are experts in diverse subjects. It is a challenge that we must face as we have done to be parents, but at this moment is when we realize that they are a world different from ours.

The concept of wireless technology was first introduced in the 19th century which has been significantly developed over the years. Today the term wireless is referred to variety of devices from smartphones, printers, tablets, wireless headphones, Bluetooth etc.

There are various types of wireless technologies that are used
In the today’s world the wireless technology have been part of the wireless communication system that permits users to communicate even from the remote operated areas. There are many devices for wireless communication like mobile. Cordless telephone, GPS, WI-FI, satellite, television and wireless computer parts like wireless mouse keyboard, best wireless headphones and wireless printers. Current wireless phone include 3 and 4G wireless networks and Bluetooth technologies.

Wireless can be divided into

Fixed wireless- the operation of the wireless in office, home and in particular, equipment connected to the internet via specialized modems.
Mobile wireless the use of wireless devices or system board motorized, moving vehicles examples include the automotive cellphone and personal communication system.
Portable wireless-the battery powered devices or systems outside the office, home or vehicle example include handheld cell phones and pcs unit.
IR wireless the use of devices that convert data via infrared radiation which is infused in certain limited range communication and control systems.

Some of the examples of wireless technologies which you may find in today’s world

Cellular phones and pager: these provide connectivity for the portable and mobile applications, both personal and business.

Home entertainment system control boxes: the VCR control boxes and the television channel control boxes and HI-FI sound system and FM radio broadcast receivers also use this technology.

Remote garage doors openers: the garage door openers also use the wireless technology to control doors by sensing the motion usually this done by the radio frequencies.

Wireless headsets-we have music jukebox available now in the form of Bluetooth headphones which allows 24 entertainments even on long journeys to make travelling fun. These are incredible because they are light weight easy to carry and without any wires. With Bluetooth technology setting and using headphones has never been easier.

Baby monitors: the baby monitors are also the wireless technology that are run by the radio frequencies these are installed to monitor babies in their rooms to hear them when they make sound.

Satellite television: allows viewers to select the hundreds of channels from any location in the world

Wireless LAN or local area networks – provides wireless networks making sure flexibility and reliability to computer users in number of places like home, business or offices.

Wireless technology is evolving with time and its use increasing with the advancement in technology being made throughout the world. People are relying on the technology more now to add ease to their lives. Some of the specialized and exclusive example of the wireless technology may include:

Global system for the mobile communication (GSM) it is the standard mobile system that is used in the Europe and other parts of the world.
General packet radio service (GPRS) – a packet based wireless communication system which provides continuous connection for the mobile phone and internet users.
Wireless application protocol (WAP)- It is the set of communication protocol set to standardize the way the wireless devices such as cellular communication system or radio transverse are used to allow user to access internet using it.
Enhanced data GSM environment (EDGE): a faster version of the Global system for mobiles (GSM) wireless service.

Wireless technology has various advantages and disadvantages

Wireless communication has many advantages few are:

Communication has enhanced to convey information to the consumer quickly.
Working professionals can work and access internet anywhere anytime with the help of wireless networks.
It increases productivity of the workers at workplace. In a survey it was reported that number of young workers listen to music using wireless headphones which makes them happier, better at concentrating and productive.
Urgent situation can be altered through wireless communication. The affected regions can be provided help and support with the help of these alerts through wireless communication.

Wireless networks are cheaper to install and maintain

There are furthermore advancement is being complete in the wireless technology with the passage of time focusing the needs of the people.

The transactions have also been improved and made easy with the help to the wireless technology.

Disadvantages
The advanced wireless technology has led us to access our personal devices anytime and anywhere. While there are numerous advantages of wireless technology there are also some threats which has arisen as well.

Wireless technology has led us to the security threats for instance the hackers can easily access the any device as the wireless signals are spread in the air therefore it is very important to secure the device using the security system in order to avoid such threats to the system.
The range of wireless networks are typically limited and typical wireless router will allow only users within 150 to 300 feet to access networks.
Disorder in signals can be caused anytime may be due to the severe weather condition or any other disruption.

The use of technology in learning institutions has increased. According to a recent study by CompTIA, up to 78% of teachers believe the use of technology in schools has positively influenced student’s productivity while 65% of educators believe the use of technology has made students more productive and learning exciting.

Technology is today used in almost all aspects of our day-to-day activities. People have become accustomed to the use of devices developed through technology. Despite a smaller percentage of individuals claiming the use of technology has done as much destruction as good, education is one of the areas where its use has completely transformed the way people study and educational institutions operate. Here are six ways how the use of technology has managed to help improve education standards.

1. Online Resources

You can always research on the internet for any educational information you need. You are always bound to find some help on the web from the broad range of resources available. The use of online resources such as studying tips, free courses, and secure custom support will help improve your grades.

2. Multimedia learning

People learn in different ways. While some individuals learn better visually, others do so using audio. This has made most education institutions and teachers to change their tact. Instead of focusing on lectures and giving notes, most educators and schools have resorted to using of multimedia to help teach their students better. It comprises use of auditory, visual and kinesthetic. With technology, there is always a way you can effectively learn.

3. Use of E-books

Nothing bores a learner like having to lug around a pile of books for a curriculum. You can carry your entire course materials wherever you go in a tablet. You can always open the eBooks and do light studying wherever or whenever you wish like reading. The e-books are also known to cost less compared to the usual paperbacks making them affordable to most students.

4. Worldwide tutoring

The Internet is not just known for having the unlimited amount of information online; it also contains an infinite number of minds! With technology, you are now able to receive help from anywhere irrespective of your location. This is beneficial especially to people who are interested in learning other languages.

5. Online Editing

There are times when you might need a second opinion but might not have a friend around to have a look at it. Reading through your work and making corrections before submission is one thing you can never afford to ignore. You are most likely set to miss on something when you decide to edit all by yourself. Sharing your work with an online editor is one efficient method you can always use to help improve the quality of your paper.

6. Study Groups

Despite preferring to explore alone, there are times when you might be assigned a group project. However, scheduling a meeting with your group students can be impossible. With technology, there are online platforms making group discussions easier. You can easily share notes and other materials and collaborate through video chats. You can also decide to connect with other students doing a similar course even if you are not in the same group.

Technology is always changing and so you have to keep up with it. In this article I suggest six effective ways you can improve your technology skills. Read on to find out.

Here they are:

1) Improve your typing speed

Time yourself initially and see how many words you can type per minute. By and by try to type more per minute. Practice a little every day and you will get better and better at it.

2) Teach yourself how to pick up good stuff from the internet

When you come across something that interests you over the web, use your rational logic and ask yourself, “Is this going to help or hurt me?” Make a choice and carry it out. In this way extract always the good stuff and filter out the bad from the web.

3) Don’t always rely on the tech guy

Things like formatting your computer can easily be done by you instead of always calling in the tech guy. Learn and relearn and you will find yourself to be an expert at it.

4) Learn new programming skills

What programming skills do you currently possess? What is new out there? Research and find out. Go through the modern languages which you do not know yet and improve your programming skills. The more you keep them in practice, the better you get at them. Try to code every day for one hour or so and maintain it. It will add to your expertise.

5) Get more acquainted with Microsoft Office and Adobe products

For instance, getting familiar with new features of Word, Excel, Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat Reader/PDF Writer will allow you to soar high. The more you know about them, the more skilled you get, which might be beneficial for your digital tasks at home or office.

6) Strike a conversation with a professional expert on technology

Make friendship and converse with a professional expert on Technology at your office or somewhere else and keep yourself updated about the technological stuff he knows, does and teaches his team of people. You may not be able to grasp everything all at once. So meet up frequently, go slow and absorb as much as you can per conversation.

These are some of the six enticing ways you really can upgrade your technology skills and skyrocket to your best advantage. Always remember: Knowledge is power. So make it a point to learn some new digital stuff every single day.